David Huber: Smooth Mini-Magnum Rhodesian (2420) Tobacco Pipe

For some reason I've always been entertained by oxymorons, two words that when paired together are contradictory, you know, like jumbo shrimp. No one questions these anomalies since they're normal words that have become a part of everyday lexicon, but it's uncommon to see an example pop up within the context of pipe making. This David Huber Rhodesian is a rare exception, a piece called a "Mini-Magnum." It's certainly an apt descriptor as the proportions are quite substantial despite the pipe being more of a standard size. This is the kind of piece that ably showcases Huber's talents, his keen eye for precise lines, and his ability to craft pipes that are visually entertaining from all angles.

There are plenty of remarkable elements that inform the shaping of this piece, with the stout shank being quite noteworthy. It's exceptionally wide and displays a lens-shaped cross section, with firm ridgelines along its sides sweeping into the bowl's heel. Said bowl is dramatically canted and wide, sharply tapering from its domed rim toward its base. A pronounced ridgeline encircles the bowl's waist, accentuating the rim's width and roundness while also framing the birdseye that graces its surface. The innermost portion of the rim subtly slopes inward toward the chamber, while the stem's expansion disc adds even more crispness to the composition's profile, taking up little visual weight in relation to the large stummel. It's a fascinating example of Huber's creativity and distinctive approach to traditional forms.